What is the 20-20-20 rule?

Every 20 minutes of screen time, look at something at least 20 feet (about 6 meters) away for 20 seconds. Coined by optometrist Dr. Jeffrey Anshel in the 1990s and recommended by the American Optometric Association as a baseline habit for anyone using digital screens for more than two hours daily.

Does the 20-20-20 rule actually work?

Controlled studies show 20-second far-focus breaks measurably reduce subjective digital eye strain. The benefit comes from ciliary-muscle relaxation through far-focus plus a brief tear-film reset from increased blinking. The rule does not cure myopia, replace good monitor ergonomics, or substitute for an annual eye exam.

Yes. EYE CARE is free, runs in any modern browser, requires no signup, and is open source. Optional donations and a small affiliate link strip support development; the timer itself has no paywall.

Does it work offline?

Yes. EYE CARE is a Progressive Web App: install it to your home screen and the timer continues to work without an internet connection.

Which languages are supported?

12 languages: English, Japanese, Chinese (Simplified), Korean, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Russian, Arabic (RTL), Hindi, and Italian. Browser language is auto-detected; the language selector at the top lets you switch at any time.

Will the timer notify me when a break starts?

Yes — if you grant notification permission during the welcome flow. A soft audio chime also plays when the break begins. Both are optional and can be muted.

EYE CARE — 20-20-20 RULE • PROTECT YOUR VISION

EYE CAREdawn

EYE CARE · I · 04:28

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20-20-20 RULE • PROTECT YOUR VISION

EYE CARE — 20-20-20 RULE • PROTECT YOUR VISION